Seeking Alternatives for M9 Drops in the UK

Hi
I live in the UK and am not able to get hold of the M9 drops. I have spoken to Hollister and for some reason, they don't carry it in the UK.

I have tried the Brava lubricant deodorant but in my opinion, it has made things worse.

I am looking for an alternative solution to eliminate odors from my ileostomy bag. I have tried doing some research and came across suggestions for using eucalyptus oil or mint mouthwash. Has anyone tried these? Do they work? And is the eucalyptus oil safe if it touches the stoma or skin?

Thank you

Hello ClaraD.
The consensus on here seems to be that what works for one person may not work for another.
Anything you try should be 'tested' on a different part of your body to ascertain if there is any adverse reaction.
I have used mint mouthwash and all sorts of scented oils ( the 'essence of mint' used for cooking has a powerful smell) without any adverse effects (for me).
Nowadays, (for cleaning and deodorising my bags and sleeves) I just use the same sprays as my wife buys for cleaning surfaces around the house. However, it should be pointed out that this never touches my skin or stoma so I don't need to be concerned about this aspect. Also, because of the design of my devices, I do not need extra lubricants.

It's all about experimenting with different things until you find what might be the best option for your own needs.
Best wishes

Bill
  

Some use Tic Tacs. I tried peppermint Life Savers; it worked somewhat. Salts Noroma did not work for me. Good luck.

I have used baking soda for years.  I believe that it works as an odor absorbent, just like when you put an opened box of it in the fridge.  I've commented on this before, but I've never gotten any feedback about it, so I don't know if I'm just one lonely soul that does this.  Anyway, it works for me, and it's a helluva lot cheaper than the expensive stuff that Hollister and the others hawk.  I just dip a bit in the pouch after I've emptied.  I keep a little bowl of it in the bathroom. 

After reading someone suggesting antibacterial hand soap, I thought I'd give it a try... actually worked. I also use Dansac No Odor, which works well.

Part number 080-00

Getting Support in the Ostomy Community with LeeAnne Hayden | Hollister

Hi Clara, if you try mouthwash, make sure it doesn't have any alcohol in it.

Thank you for the replies. I guess it's a matter of either M9 or experimenting to see what's best. 😢 I don't get why they don't sell it here in the UK; it's upsetting…

I have used it Henry, it works.

Hello from Derbyshire! Tbh, I don't use any as I haven't found any that work for my colostomy. However, there is a toilet bowl spray called Voopoo that you spray into the toilet, and it works well at masking the odor. Got it off Amazon. Worth a try if it's when you're emptying it.

🤞🏽🙂

I used these drops. Correct me if I'm wrong, but I have been told by my stoma nurse that the NHS is cutting back on the cost of stoma products because of the cost to the NHS, and these scented oil drops are no longer available on the NHS.

Hello Mark1.

Last year I attended a stoma care event organised by our local stoma nurses. Apart from the talks by manufacturers, the stoma nurses also gave a talk about the new guidance they had been given about cutting back on stoma products.
All non-essential products would be subject to scrutiny and possibly restricted or stopped in terms of supply on the NHS.
I questioned one of the products mentioned. because my specific needs necessitated this one. I was told that the guidance allowed for discretion and flexibility for such circumstances.

Thus, I was given the impression that these things could be open to negotiation.
Best wishes
Bill